Stalemate in Casablanca: Resolute Comoros Hold Determined Mali to a Goalless AFCON Draw

In a dramatic twist at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Mali found themselves once again grinding out a draw — this time in a tactical tussle that left fans buzzing and pundits debating. The Eagles may not have taken all three points, but they certainly left their mark in a match that was anything but dull. 

On Monday, December 29, 2025, Mali locked horns with Comoros in a tightly contested Group A clash at the Mohamed V Stadium in Casablanca. What unfolded was an intense battle of wills — but no goals. Yes, the final score read a calm yet compelling 0-0 draw, a result that keeps both teams in the mix but also raises questions about Mali’s attacking punch. 

Unlike some high-scoring spectacles fans crave, this game was defined by strategy and resilience. Mali dominated possession, probing Comoros’ defensive shape with rhythm and intent, but time after time they found themselves blocked or stifled by a determined Comoran back line. Comoros, in contrast, parked deep and countered whenever possible, soaking up pressure but rarely threatening the scoreboard. 

The story of the game wasn’t just the silence on the scoresheet — it was Mali’s refusal to buckle under pressure. They created chances, they controlled phases of play, and their midfield pulsed with energy. Yet, in a match where the goalposts seemed to repel every effort, both sides departed with only a point each. 

For Mali, this result follows another recent stalemate — a 1-1 draw against hosts Morocco, where they snatched a point late through a spot-kick equaliser that ended the Atlas Lions’ world-record 19-match winning streak earlier in the tournament. That game was thrilling: Morocco went ahead via a Brahim Diaz penalty, only for Lassine Sinayoko to coolly convert from the spot in the second half to secure the share of the spoils. 

Back to the Comoros match, the stalemate highlights an ongoing theme with Mali — solid structure but occasional issues finding the breakthrough. Sure, they bossed possession and crafted chances, but in tournaments like AFCON, finishing counts just as much as flair. Their next outings will demand sharper attacking instincts if they’re to climb the Group A standings. 

For neutral fans, this draw might not be the most exhilarating result, but in the context of AFCON group dynamics, it’s significant. Every point matters, and Mali’s ability to grind out results — even without netting goals — could prove crucial as they push toward the knockout rounds. 

Meanwhile, the Comoros team can take pride in a gritty defensive display that frustrated one of West Africa’s traditional football powers and kept their own hopes alive. 

In the end, no goals doesn’t mean no drama. Tournaments are as much about tactical battles and resilience as they are about spectacular strikes — and today, Mali served up a masterclass in the former. Points shared. Pride intact. And the AFCON journey far from over.